VASNHS Celebrates African American WWII Veteran’s 100th Birthday

VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System is honored to recognize Bennie Roberts Jr. for his service and wish him a very happy 100th Birthday.

Roberts Jr. was born on February 8, 1926, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Growing up during the Great Depression in a low-income community, he helped care for his younger siblings while facing significant hardships as an African American in the South.

In 1943, while still in high school, Bennie enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve in his father's place after his father received a draft notice. He reported for duty on May 24, 1943, and completed boot camp in Williamsburg, Virginia, followed by additional training in Oklahoma and San Diego.

Upon reaching active duty, Roberts Jr. first served at Treasure Island in San Francisco before deploying to Hawaii as a winch operator, where he worked long hours loading and unloading cargo from troop ships supporting the Pacific theater.

In addition to the challenges he experienced serving during wartime, Roberts Jr. also endured discrimination. “Like many African American servicemen of that era, I faced racial segregation and unequal opportunities,” said Roberts. “These challenges shaped my lifelong commitment to fairness and equal treatment.”

While serving, Bennie was injured in a deck accident that contributed to long‑term health issues, for which he received care from VA. 

Following the end of World War II, Bennie received an honorable discharge on November 11, 1945, as a Seaman First Class, with service in the Pacific Theater, one bronze star, and the World War II Victory Medal.

After the war, Bennie used his G.I. Bill to pursue education. He went on to build a successful career, which included working at automotive companies, and a long-term service at Los Angeles City Hall. There, he worked closely with former Mayor Tom Bradley in roles including advisor, chauffeur, and trusted aide.

A lifelong learner, Bennie took classes in photography, upholstery, and other skills, using them to support his family and fund his children's education. He remains a resilient, disciplined individual who values equal opportunity and has overcome challenges rooted in the era's segregation.

Happy 100th Birthday, Bennie Roberts Jr.—and thank you for your service.